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Integrating technology in teaching

Teachers and Technology

There
is no doubt that finding the time to integrate technology is an
overwhelming task for anyone. Throughout the course of a day, teachers
find themselves pulled in many directions. However, technology is
already integrated in nearly everything we do and nearly every job our
students will encounter. So how do educators find an ideal balance for
learning about and eventually integrating technology? It begins with a
focus followed by good instructional design -- but ultimately, a healthy
balance.

Tomorrow's Literacy

Technology
is a literacy that is expected in higher education and in our economy.
It is a universal language spoken by the entire world, regardless of the
profession. Our current students will encounter one of the toughest job
markets in generations. Gone are the days of falling into a profession
and riding that wave for 30-plus years. However, it's not to say those
jobs aren't still available. They are, but they're dwindling as
automation and outsourcing continue to expand.

The
contemporary job market requires us to adapt, continually learn, and
apply various skill sets in many directions. We have to multitask,
connect beyond the workday, and collaborate and connect both locally and
globally. And while I am promoting that exposure to technology and
digital tools is essential, we must do so responsibly. Teaching students
how to balance technology usage along with offline socializing and
interpersonal skills is essential. But it's irresponsible to proclaim
that technology simply distracts, diminishes social skills, and holds
lesser value than other content areas. And to do so not only lets our
students down, but also negates the mission statements emblazoned on the
walls of our schools.

It's
equally important to expose students to information literacy skill
sets. As databases grow and information continues to evolve into
paperless formats, it is essential to teach students how to question
effectively and efficiently. In a world flooded with information to
read, libraries have never been more important. Along with digital and
information literacy skill sets, it's still vital that we promote and
encourage a love of reading across all formats -- along with a facility
for questioning, analyzing, discerning and synthesizing with other
media.